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Definition of holly

holly

/ˈhɑː.li/
hol · ly
Plural:hollies
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holly Lexical Profile

holly Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A widely distributed evergreen shrub or small tree of the genus Ilex, native to various temperate and subtropical regions, characterized by glossy, spiky dark green leaves and bright red berries.

Example

"The birds relied on the berries of the holly for sustenance during the harsh winter months."

2

The branches or foliage of the holly plant, historically harvested and used as a traditional festive decoration during the winter holidays.

Example

"We decorated the mantelpiece with fresh pine cones and a thick garland of holly."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for holly

• Rhymes for holly

• Nearby Words

hole
holiday
hollow
holly
hollyhock
hologram
holster

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'holeġn', derived from the Proto-Germanic root '*hulin-', meaning 'prickly' or 'stiff', ultimately tracing back to an Indo-European root shared with words for 'prickly plants'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Holly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 15, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/holly
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